• A lump on the breast or armpit

• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast

• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin

• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast

• Nipple discharge other than breast milk

• Any change in shape or size of the breast

• Pain in the chest

Finding one of these symptoms does not mean you have breast cancer. These symptoms can also be caused by benign breast conditions. You should follow up with your health care professional with any concerns. Regular screenings (mammograms) are the best way to find breast cancer early, before any symptoms appear.

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An X-ray picture of the breast can detect a tumor before a woman has any symptoms, and before a tumor is large enough to be felt as a lump. This type of X-ray is called a mammogram.

Women older than 50 years old should have a mammogram every two years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Women between 40 and 49 should speak with their doctors about how often to be screened.

Women who find breast cancer in its earliest stages have the best chance for successful treatment.